The Brazil media delivered a strong verdict on Bruno Guimaraes’ performance in a comprehensive friendly victory against Panama.
Bruno Guimaraes played the first 45 minutes of Brazil’s 6-2 win over Panama on Sunday evening.
It was Brazil’s final match on home soil before heading to the United States for the 2026 World Cup.
The Newcastle captain started the match but was withdrawn as part of wholesale half-time changes made by Carlo Ancelotti. The score was 2-1 at the time after Vinicius Junior’s early opener was cancelled out by a Matheus Cunha own goal before Casemiro restored the lead.
Carlos Harvey pulled back a late consolation for Panama, who will face England in their final World Cup group stage match on June 27.
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Guimaraes is set to play a key role for Brazil at what will be his second World Cup tournament after 2022. The five-time world champions have been drawn in a group alongside 2022 semi-finalists Morocco, Scotland and Haiti.
Following the win over Panama, Guimaraes took to Instagram to write (translated from Portuguese): “Great victory for the team and a beautiful celebration from our fans! Now on to the USA! Go Brazil!”
Next up for Brazil is their final pre-tournament friendly against Egypt in Cleveland on Saturday.
Brazil media issue Bruno Guimaraes verdict
But even a comfortable friendly win doesn’t remove any criticism from leading Brazilian outlet, Globo Esporte, regarding the side’s performance. Globo were critical of several starting players for Brazil, describing their performances as ‘average’.
“He committed the foul that led to Panama's goal. He failed to control the ball after a good long pass into the box from Alex Sandro.
“He attempted a shot from outside the area, but it went too high. A good pass inside the area led to a dangerous shot from Raphinha. Another perfectly placed ball at the end of the first half, this one a lob to Raphinha.”
Other Newcastle United players in action
In addition to Guimaraes, Nick Woltemade also made a cameo appearance for Germany on Sunday evening in a 4-0 win over Finland.
The Newcastle forward came on in the 73rd minute after the scoring was complete, playing in a slightly deeper role than he has done previously for the national team. Malick Thiaw remained an unused substitute in the match ahead of the World Cup.
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